Four-Day Gurmat Samagam Concludes in Tarn Taran, Honoring 300th Martyrdom Anniversary of Shaheed Bhai Tara Singh
A significant four-day religious event, the Gurmat Samagam, organized by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), concluded on Saturday at Gurdwara Shaheed Baba Tara Singh Wan in Tarn Taran. The event was held to mark the 300th anniversary of the martyrdom of Shaheed Bhai Tara Singh Ji Wan and other revered Sikh martyrs, drawing prominent personalities from the Sikh community for the final day's ceremonies.
Leaders Emphasize Historical Inspiration and Sikh Principles
During the function at Diwan Hall, which followed the Bhog of Sri Akhand Path Sahib, SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami addressed the congregation. He highlighted that the Sikh heroes, whose martyrdom centenary was being celebrated, chose to sacrifice their lives for the respect of their hair (kesan) while upholding core Sikh principles. Dhami stressed the importance of drawing inspiration from such historical events and encouraging children to pledge righteousness in contemporary times.
The acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, also spoke at the event. He noted that the Majha region has produced numerous heroes who attained martyrdom while fighting against oppression. Gargaj emphasized that commemorating these martyrs, who upheld the principles of the Guru, serves as a reminder to the new generation of their rich heritage. Additionally, he discussed the issue of Bandi Singhs, criticizing the government for what he described as double standards and the consistent ignoring of Sikh sentiments.
Prominent Figures Share History and Pay Tributes
The occasion featured several notable speakers who shared historical insights and paid homage to the martyrs. Singh Sahib Giani Amarjit Singh and Kathavachak Baba Banta Singh Mundapind engaged the congregation with detailed accounts of Sikh history. Other distinguished attendees included senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Virsa Singh Valtoha, Padma Shri awardee Baba Sewa Singh Khadoor Sahib, Jathedar Baba Balbir Singh 96th Crori, Baba Avtar Singh Sursingh, and Additional Chief Granthi of Takht Sri Patna Sahib Giani Gurdial Singh.
A number of SGPC members were present, along with key officials such as personal secretary Shahbaz Singh, additional secretary Bijay Singh, deputy secretary Gurnam Singh, Harbhajan Singh Waqta, Sukhbir Singh, Akali leader Bibi Kanchanpreet Kaur, former secretary Harbhajan Singh Manawan, Sukhdev Singh Bhura Kohna, and Baba Sukha Singh Sarhali. Their participation underscored the community-wide significance of the event, which aimed to honor the sacrifices of Sikh martyrs and reinforce spiritual values.
